Evidence Synthesis Report 10: Training and Capacity Building for Radiological Waste Management Activities in Non-nuclear European Union Member States
Authors: Bojan Tomic, Vedrana Vuletic and Oana Velicu
Summary: This study, conducted by Enconet Consulting Ges.m.b.H, highlights the need for a coherent, long‑term national approach to developing and sustaining the skills required for effective radioactive‑waste management, reflecting challenges shared across non‑nuclear EU Member States.
Ireland, which has no nuclear facilities generates small amounts of radioactive waste from industry, medicine and research. This radioactive waste is managed under national legislation transposing the Radioactive Waste Directive. However, international radioactive waste reviews noted that education, training and capacity building for radiological waste management (RWM) activities in Ireland needed strengthening.
This research study examined how comparable non‑nuclear EU Member States and the UK implemented the Radioactive Waste Directive requirements for education, training and capacity building for RWM activities.
The research found common challenges in all non‑nuclear EU Member States: limited strategic planning for knowledge development and persistent underfunding. Consequently, building, maintaining and sustaining the necessary expertise over time is challenging.
Findings recommend establishing a national RWM capacity‑building framework, systematically identifying required skills and developing of all staff involved in RWM and a structured national training plan to ensure long‑term sustainability.
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